Hyundai Tucson III (TL) (2015 – 2020)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

The third-generation Hyundai Tucson (codename TL) marks a major turning point for the Korean manufacturer. Replacing the ix35 in Europe, it reclaims the Tucson nameplate globally. This model allowed the brand to make a spectacular leap in terms of design, perceived quality, and road handling, bringing it closer to European standards. Based on the same platform as its cousin, the Kia Sportage IV, it offers excellent cabin space and rich equipment. The mid-cycle refresh (Phase 2) that occurred in mid-2018 modernized the front fascia, improved the quality of interior plastics, and, most importantly, revised the mechanical offering (replacement of the 1.7 CRDi by the 1.6 CRDi Smartstream, introduction of 48V mild-hybridization). Overall, it's a very well-designed SUV, whose mechanical reliabil

✅ Strengths

Overall reliability of diesel engines (very durable CRDi blocks)
Generous cabin space and boot volume (513 liters in conventional thermal version)
Ergonomics of controls and intuitive infotainment system
Sound and safe road handling
5-year unlimited mileage manufacturer's warranty (guarantee of good follow-up if the vehicle has been serviced within the network)
Significantly improved sound insulation compared to the ix35

⚠️ Weaknesses

DCT-7 dual-clutch gearbox (on 1.7 CRDi and 1.6 T-GDI) prone to premature wear and jerks
Quality of certain interior plastics on Phase 1 (before 2018)
High fuel consumption of gasoline engines (especially the 1.6 T-GDI)
Significant vehicle weight which penalizes dynamism and consumption
Fickle AdBlue system on the 1.6 CRDi (Phase 2)

🎯 Verdict

The Hyundai Tucson III is an excellent choice on the used car market, particularly for high-mileage drivers looking for a reliable diesel SUV. The CRDi blocks (1.7, 1.6, and 2.0) are among the most robust diesel engines of their generation, often surpassing their European competitors in terms of engine block longevity. The expert's choice: The 2.0 CRDi (136 or 185 hp) paired with the conventional automatic gearbox (6-speed or 8-speed automatic) is the pinnacle of reliability for this model. It is indestructible and does not suffer from the issues of the dual-clutch gearbox. If you opt for the 1.7 CRDi or the 1.6 CRDi, opt for a manual gearbox. If you absolutely insist on the automatic gearbox (DCT-7), ensure that the clutch has been replaced or that it operates with perfect fluidity, both cold and hot. Avoid gasoline versions imported from North America (2.0 and 2.4 GDI) due to their serious design flaws.

Common issues

Filtre à particules (FAP) encrassé Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 300 – 600 € (nettoyage) ; 1 200 – 2 500 € (remplacement)

Privilégier les longs trajets réguliers pour éviter l'encrassement.

Vanne EGR encrassée ou défectueuse Medium

🔧 70 000 – 120 000 km

💶 250 – 600 € (nettoyage/remplacement)

Une conduite souple et des décrassages réguliers peuvent prolonger sa durée de vie.

Problèmes de transmission à double embrayage (DCT 7 rapports) High

🔧 60 000 – 150 000 km

💶 1 500 – 3 500 € (remplacement embrayage/mécatronique)

Tester la fluidité des passages de rapports à l'essai, vérifier l'historique d'entretien.

Défaillance du système AdBlue (SCR) High

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 400 – 1 500 € (capteur, pompe ou réservoir)

Utiliser uniquement de l'AdBlue de qualité et éviter de rouler avec un réservoir vide.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£90 – 160
Timing chain	données insuffisantes (non systématique, seulement si panne)
Clutch	£850 – 1 500 (manuel) ; £1 600 – 2 800 (DCT, pack d'embrayage)
Complete brakes	£300 – 550
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.